In John Steinbeck's "Cannery Row," the narrative portrays a man with a beard who finds himself in an unfamiliar town, selecting an unusual drink, a beer milkshake. His choice pulls attention, as it is not a common order, hinting at a sense of strangeness or deviance within a community where he lacks familiarity and recognition. This peculiar act could provoke suspicion among the locals, leading them to react by potentially calling the police.

This scenario exemplifies themes of conformity and the fear of the unknown in society. The man's unconventional behavior starkly contrasts with the town's expectations, revealing how easily someone can be judged or misunderstood. Steinbeck's writing explores the idea of belonging and alienation, as the man becomes an outlier by simply being himself in a place where he does not fit in.